Former Wanna One member Lai Kuanlin opened up with raw honesty about his life and true feelings after retiring from idol activities.
On May 5, Mnet Plus’s variety show WANNA ONE GO : Back to Base (Wanna One Go: Back to Base) featured Lai Kuanlin reuniting with Ha Sung Woon in Beijing, China. Meeting face-to-face for the first time in about seven years, the two shared a meal and caught up on everything they had missed.
Looking back on his life in China, Lai Kuanlin admitted, "When I first came to Beijing, I had no friends or family, so I felt lonely. I missed Korean food, but there was no one to ask, so I cooked it myself." He then revealed, "I’m now walking a new path in the film world." Lai Kuanlin added, "I joined a Chinese film production company, I’m learning scripts, and I’m focusing on short films," noting with a smile that "earning a monthly salary gives me a sense of stability."
He also shared a positive outlook on life after leaving the entertainment industry. "I like who I am now. Rather than becoming a singer overnight, I prefer moving forward slowly while putting in the work," he said.
Notably, he explained that he still keeps up his fluent Korean "because I still have lingering feelings for Korea." He even revealed tattoos on his arm — including 'August 7,' Wanna One’s debut date — showing his deep affection. "If I had to pick the most commemorative day of my life, it would be August 7," Lai Kuanlin said, which moved Ha Sung Woon to tears.
In a personal interview, he confessed, "It was a bit burdensome to join filming again," and added, "I’d like to meet the members separately later and talk more." He wrapped up with a warm message to fans: "You remember me, right? I’m doing well, and I hope you’re happy too."
After the broadcast, Ha Sung Woon also shared parts of their heartfelt conversation. On his Instagram, he wrote, "Seeing you reminded me of when I was struggling. I’m grateful that we both held on well." Lai Kuanlin replied, "I’m sorry I couldn’t do anything when you were having a hard time. I cried a lot alone and thought of the members," highlighting their deep friendship.
Previously, after winning his exclusive-contract dispute with Cube Entertainment in 2021, Lai Kuanlin moved his base of activities to China. Since then, he has gradually stepped back from entertainment and is now studying film production and directing as he forges a new career.